Water Crisis in Bihar: Causes, Impacts and the Road to Recovery
Manoj Kumar*
ICAR-National Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India
S.B. Tarate
ICAR-National Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India
R.K. Rout
ICAR-National Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India
V.K. Padala
ICAR-National Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India
S.M. Raut
ICAR-National Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India
DOI: NIL
Keywords: Climate change, Groundwater depletion, Groundwater recharge, Rainwater harvesting
Abstract
The water crisis in Bihar is real and aggravating with every passing year. Traditionally flood prone districts of north Bihar, such as Sitamarhi and Darbhanga to name a few, are facing acute water shortages even for drinking and domestic purposes, let alone agricultural needs and that too in the middle of the monsoon. Qualitative water degradation further compounds the problem adding human health dimension to the crisis. Overexploitation of ground water and poor recharge, changing rainfall patterns under a changing climate, neglect of surface water systems and excessive groundwater pollution are the major causes of the water crisis which demand urgent remedial measures. We, in this article, elaborate upon the human, social and agricultural impacts of the water crisis, and propose strategies to ensure mindful utilization of the water resources for securing the future growth prospects of Bihar.
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Reference
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